Jessica Simmonds

`The key role that foster carers play in shaping children's lives and futures in now being recognised. However, the demands and expectations placed upon them have increased significantly over recent years, as they work in ever more complex situations. Carers' need for a good understanding of the legal and policy context has never been greater, and so a book which provides such a clear and comprehensive guide to the law is very timely. I know that many foster carers will welcome this useful tool, and others will enjoy the case studies and the links with daily life in fostering households.'---Andrea Warman, Deputy Chief Executive, The Who Cares? Trust

`A very readable, practical and clear guide to the minefield of regulations relating to fostering, which I recommend as reading for all involved in fostering. This book is particularly useful for foster carers who need to understand the complex nature of the law in a straightforward way using case examples.'---Jim Bond, Foster Carer and Chair, The Fostering Network

`An extremely useful resource for foster parents and those who with them. All of the foster parents I work with felt that this would be an invaluable resource for them in their work.'---Steve Bromage, Team Leader, By the Bridge Independent Fostering Agency

A Practical Guide to Fostering Law is an accessible, jargon-free guide to key areas of law for foster carers and those who work with them.

It will help foster carers to understand where they fit into the complex web of regulations surrounding childcare and to demystify the jargon and terminology which is often used but rarely explained. The book covers the laws governing fostering agencies and foster carers themselves in England and Wales, including foster carers' rights and the formalities of placement procedures. It also provides explanations of care proceedings, the foster carer as a witness, what happens if a young fostered person gets involved in crime or anti-social behaviour, and moving on from foster care. Illustrative case examples are used throughout, and also included are a jargon-busting glossary of key terms and information on where to go to find out more.

This guide will be an invaluable resource for current and prospective foster carers and those who work with them, such as support workers, social workers and foster agency staff.